Corruption remains a serious problem for citizens of the European Union, both in their daily lives and in business activities. The level of corruption may vary in different EU countries, but the phenomenon itself has a negative impact on society as a whole, leading to a drain of investments and affecting government finances.
According to the latest data from the "Eurobarometer" as of July 12, 2023, Cyprus tops the ranking of EU countries with the highest percentage of companies considering corruption as the main problem for their operations.
Interestingly, 95% of Cypriot entrepreneurs agree with this statement.
Romania ranks second in this year's ranking (75%), followed by Greece in third place (74%).
According to 62% of participating companies, the most common practice for resolving disputes in Cyprus is the offering of "kickbacks," followed by financing political parties in exchange for government contracts or influence on policy-making (57%). Additionally, 49% consider favoritism towards friends and family in government institutions (known as "wasta" in Cyprus) to be a widespread practice, while 35% see bribery as a common occurrence.
Regarding the fight against corruption in Cyprus, 86% of local entrepreneurs believe that individuals and companies caught in bribery cases involving high-ranking officials are not adequately punished. Only 12% of respondents disagreed, stating that proper punishment is imposed.
73% of participants stated that anti-corruption measures in Cyprus are not applied impartially and selflessly, while 22% believe that they are fully implemented.
Furthermore, 60% of respondents agree that individuals and companies caught in minor corruption cases are appropriately punished, while 36% do not support this view.
As for any experience of corruption in public service, 96% of respondents stated that they have never given any bribes for obtaining construction permits, business licenses, changes in land use, environmental permits (including waste management and water treatment), vehicle registration plates, or licenses related to transportation, government aid, social and structural funds. However, 4% admitted to engaging in mutually beneficial exchanges or providing money to officials at least once.
Interestingly, a majority of Cypriot companies (65%) believe that corruption has prevented them from winning public tenders or securing government contracts in the past three years, while 26% responded negatively to this question.
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